to triangulate the location of evidence so the scene can be easily and correctly recreated . Photographs often include non-evidence items that “ clutter ” the images and detract from the focus on the critical pieces of evidence . Diagramming enables the officer to draw the jury ’ s eyes to only the important aspects ( i . e . evidence ) within the crime scene . The details of a diagram can be scaled according to the needs of the case . For example , to represent the location of a fingerprint is much different than the complex representation of multiple bloodstain patterns ’ orientation . For more serious investigations , the utilization of 3D laser scanners are an almost necessity in 21st century criminal investigations . The data collected and time on scene saved by this type of equipment is unparalleled by any other investigative tool .
Processing the Scene Crime scene investigations are a running checklist , requiring on-going prioritization of evidence and investigative acts . After the scene has been properly documented
and an evidentiary search conducted to identify items of evidence , areas to process for latent print and / or DNA evidence can be completed . Evidence of a sensitive nature , that can be affected by time or environmental factors , should be collected as soon as possible . After the processing of all further evidence has been completed ( fingerprint processing , DNA sampling , trace evidence lifts , impression casts ), the items can be collected and packaged . In general , the utilization of personal protective equipment ( PPE ) should be required of staff while on scenes or handling evidentiary items . However , when collecting DNA evidence , the investigator should change their gloves between each sample as well as wear the proper personal protective equipment to minimize possible contamination of the samples .
Whenever possible , it is preferable to process evidence at a lab , as opposed to processing it at the scene . Biological evidence or items that may require DNA or blood examinations should be packaged in breathable containers ( e . g . paper bags or cardboard boxes ). Once all procedures for correct packaging have been utilized and secured within the agency ’ s property and evidence section ( not a Detective ’ s desk drawer ), the evidence can move forward for further examination .
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